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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Fifty-one Pennsylvanians today became US citizens at the National Constitution Center, on Independence Mall, under the watchful eye of retired US Supreme Court justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

“Will all those petitioning for citizenship please raise your right hand,” an official said to begin the swearing-in.

The ceremony was held as part of the Constitution Day festivities.

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After the oath of allegiance was administered, the newly minted Americans were treated to a speech by Justice O’Connor (seated in center of table), who urged them to put the civics lessons they learned into action.

“You will bring new strength to our nation. Be part of it. Be a citizen who really cares and learns, and talks to others and engages with others, and cast your votes,” she told them.

And that’s exactly what Angela Jenigen, a new US citizen, plans to do.

“I came to be part of my democracy, and I am here. American. Forever.”